Mac and cheese is more than just a meal—it’s a warm hug in a bowl. This classic version brings together creamy, melted cheddar cheese and a crunchy, buttery breadcrumb topping that’s simply irresistible.
I remember the first time I baked this recipe for a chilly evening. The aroma of melted cheese and toasted crumbs filled the kitchen, wrapping the whole house in cozy comfort. Every spoonful was a perfect balance of creamy softness and crispy topping that made me feel right at home.
Why You’ll Love It:
– Smooth, creamy cheddar cheese sauce that clings to every elbow macaroni
– Buttery, golden brown breadcrumb topping with a satisfying crunch
– Rustic and homely presentation that feels like a comforting classic
– Easy boiling and baking steps that deliver perfect results every time
Made with simple ingredients you likely have on hand, this dish comes together quickly and offers a heartwarming meal for any day.
Ready in under an hour, this recipe is both comforting and approachable.
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Classic Mac and Cheese
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
A timeless comfort food featuring elbow macaroni in a creamy cheddar cheese sauce, topped with crispy breadcrumbs and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
2 cups elbow macaroni
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
3 tablespoons butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook until al dente, about 7-8 minutes. Drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to form a roux.
Gradually whisk in the milk, continuing to stir until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and black pepper.
Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce and mix well.
Pour the mixture into a shallow round baking dish. Sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and crispy.
Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
FAQ
Q: Can I prepare this mac and cheese ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble it a few hours before baking and keep it covered in the refrigerator until ready to bake.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the sauce creamy without drying out.
Don’t forget to save or print this recipe next time you crave a cozy, cheesy classic. Then, dive in and enjoy every creamy, crunchy bite.